4 Authentic Emirati Dishes Dubai Influencers Recommend You Must Try To Get The Local Vibes

Emirati cuisine has defined Dubai’s culinary scene for decades and continues to be on the ‘must-try’ list for visitors and residents alike. Emirati heritage has been the center of the city’s culinary scene, and Dubai Food Festival (DFF) showcases some of the most-loved Emirati dishes you can dig into by anytime of the year.

From delving into the city’s historic corners to discovering traditional flavours and mainstream eateries, Emirati cuisine has played a major in influencing the city’s food trends. Here are some of the best Emirati dishes recommended by Dubai’s popular influencers.

Top Recommendations From Influencers

1. Balaleet

Balaleet is a traditional sweet and savoury dish popular in the Emirates and a favourite for visitors alike. Ahmed Janahi, the food expert behind @So_foody explains, “Balaleet dish is a famous Emirati dish & it’s my favorite. Every house has a different way to make it, and it comes in two colours depending on the way it is cooked. Balaleet is a blend of both sweet and salty elements. Prepared with vermicelli, and sweetened with rose water, cinnamon and saffron, it is served with a thin egg omelette on top. It is a common Emirati breakfast dish and can be garnished with some pistachios before serving.”

You can try Balaleet at the Arabian Tea House in Al Fahidi, The Mall (Jumeirah) and Archeological Site in Jumeirah 2.

2. Luqaimat

This mouthwatering dessert is not only so simple to make but reflects UAE culture with every bite. Luqaimat is sweet fried dumplings made of milk, sugar, butter, and flour and then covered in date syrup, a favourite among nationals, residents and visitors. Amal Ahmad, renowned Emirati influencer tells us “I love Emirati food and the rich flavours, ingredients and spices which distinguish the taste of Emirati cuisine, including saffron, cardamom, cinnamon, lumi and others. Luqaimat is a dish loved by the masses, and one of the most famous varieties of Emirati desserts, characterized by sesame and date molasses.”

Hum Yum at Jumeirah Road, Kite Beach, Nad Al Sheba and Al Marmoom serve the best Luqaimat in town. Enjoy the delicacy along with a delicious cup of Karak Chai.

3. Machboos

Machboos is a pilaf like rice, mildly spiced and highly flavorful – where the rice is cooked in the spiced broth of the meat or chicken, melding the spices and ingredients. Rice is a staple in Emirati cuisine, and one of the favourite options to choose from is Machboos. Influencer Amal Ahmad explains, “Machboos is a must try! Containing rice, meat, lime, spices, and onions, and cooked with chicken, meat or fish. It’s one of my all-time favourites!”

Head down to Al Fanar Restaurant and Cafe at Dubai Festival City, Al Seef and in Al Barsha to enjoy traditional Machboos.

4. Thereed

A popular dish in the UAE, especially during key times throughout the year such as a popular Iftar dish during Ramadan, it is a preferred choice for breaking fast because it is light on the stomach. Made with chicken, lamb or even vegetables, Thereed is a stew with large pieces of potatoes. It’s best enjoyed with rice or even with bread such as Raqaq bread.

Visit Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding to enjoy authentic Thereed alongside other cultural dishes.

Where To Try the best Emirati Cuisine In Dubai